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30th Annual St Patrick's Day Cessna 195 Flyin St Simons Island Brunswick, Georgia March 14 - 17, 2002 |
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At least I think it was the 30th or it might have been the 28th but whose counting. The "Florida Bunch" has been staging these small, no host flyins for many years in the Southeastern US. This year six Cessna 195s and 43 intrepid lovers of the marque showed up in beautiful St Simon Island for four days of fun and fellowship. Now if you divide six into forty three is apparent that those 195s were somewhat over gross. Well, while I'm sure our trusty birds would haul that load it must be admitted that some did not arrive in 195s. I know it is hard to believe but it is true. One dearly loved member from the Chicago area, who shall remain unnamed (his initials are PVR) had the unmitigated gall to arrive in an Aero Commander of all things. In spite of these transgressions a great time was had by all as is always the case when a bunch of 195 lovers get together.
The term "no host" is a little misleading. There are few organized activities and no registration fee but it does take some work on the part of someone to arrange hotel accommodations, coordinate with the airport people, set up the Saturday night banquet and so on. This year that task was superbly handled by Wendell and Raneta Haley of Griffin, Georgia. The weather was great, the food fantastic and the Island community and airport most friendly and cooperative. Cocktails around the pool, shopping, beachcombing, cavorting with old friends (and new) made the time pass all too quickly. Oh, did I mention cocktails around the pool? Sunday morning we said our goodbyes and with many a "see you in Midland" shouts we all headed our separate ways. Where will we be next year? Who knows but I'm sure the "Florida Bunch" will come up with another winner.
Respectfully submitted |
Click photo to enlarge
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 Hosts Wendell & Raneta Haley |
 Betty Auld and Tim Haake |
 Neil Brady |
 At the airport |
 Jack Jackowski, Jack Oonck, Wendell Haley, Ken Patry, and ... |
 Around the pool |
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